Chicago Bears defensive end Akiem Hicks appears to have endured an Achilles injury during last Thursday's Thanksgiving game against the Detroit Lions.

Hicks has helped provide great run defense support along with the rest of the Chicago front line. The Bears' defense has been the best in the league all around since the beginning of the season since acquiring Khalil Mack via trade with the Oakland Raiders. Young players like Roquan Smith, Leonard Floyd, and Eddie Jackson have also been incredible difference makers. Chicago's defense is finally looking like a force to be reckoned with after so many disappointing seasons.

Hicks has been with the Bears since 2016 after spending many seasons with the New Orleans Saints and 13 games with the New England Patriots back in 2015. The Bears' defensive end has accounted for four sacks this season and has started every game for Chicago this season. In fact, Hicks has not missed a start since becoming a Chicago Bear.

Hicks has been a force again with his pass rush and run defense for the entirety of the season, and the addition of Mack has allowed Hicks little freedom to make his presence known against opposing offenses.

Head coach Matt Nagy may be downplaying Hicks' injury but it is worth monitoring and not assuming Hicks will be out there this Sunday despite never missing a game for the Bears so far in three seasons. Although things are trending in the direction that Hicks suits up against the New York Giants, the Bears will have to be cautious with one of their best defensive players.